Canadian abducted on oil rig is freed.

ST. JOHN’S – A Newfoundland family was preparing for a joyous
homecoming Wednesday, after learning one of its own had been freed after more
than a week in captivity in Nigeria.

Robert Croke, 51, was abducted from an oil platform in Nigeria with six
others on Nov. 8.

Nigerian militants in the Niger Delta region claimed responsibility for the
abduction from the oil rig High Island VII, which had recently arrived at an
oilfield, some 12 kilometres off the coast off Akwa Ibom state.

Croke’s niece, Danielle Croke confirmed he was freed to Postmedia News in an
email.

“Yes, Robert Croke has been freed,” she said, before promptly updating her
Facebook account to say she “is very happy that the hostages have been freed,
and her uncle is safe!! :D”

NTV News said Croke, 51, works for PPI Technology Services, a drilling
management company based in Houston.

Canada’s foreign affairs minister verified the news.

“I am greatly relieved to confirm that Mr. Croke has been released and is
now safe,” Lawrence Cannon said in a statement. “I have ensured that through
our officials, he receives consular assistance and is able to be reunited with
his family as soon as possible. We would like to thank everyone who worked to
ensure a safe and peaceful resolution to this incident.”

While Danielle Croke said she didn’t know when to expect her uncle’s return
to Canada, she said the family was preparing for a grand homecoming.

“It’s just a relief to know that he’s safe,” she said. “Be sure that when
he gets here, we’ll all be celebrating.”

The company that operated the rig, Afren, refused comment.

According to reports, Nigeria’s military rescued 19 hostages in all, in a
land, air and sea operation on Wednesday.